How do you varnish an exterior door?
Preparation is always key to varnishing wooden doors; following proper technique provides the best protection for your exterior wooden door. The surface should be clean, dry, sound and free from contaminants such as oils and waxes. Bare woods should be sanded to provide a key for the varnish - always sand in the direction of the grain! Remove all loose, flaking material, and treat bare areas as new a substrate.
Varnish is applied evenly using light strokes following the grain of the wood; for best results multiple coats may be required, especially on new wood. Brushing well into joints and end grains will help prevent moisture ingress.
Previously varnished surfaces can be stripped back easily using a varnish remover. Always read the data sheets for each product, following manufacturer application instructions.
Can I varnish over exterior stain?
You can varnish over stained wood surfaces - we recommend testing a small patch first to ensure compatibility, or contact our technical team for advice. The first coat of varnish must be applied carefully.
How do you protect exterior wood windows?
Wood varnishes and wood sealers help protect exterior wood window frames from rotting, as well as protected from the damaging effects of UV light and climatic conditions.
How do you varnish a window frame?
The same preparation rules apply to windows frames they do doors, removing contaminants and ensuring a smooth and sound surface on which to varnish. Cracked and weathered window frames can be filled and sanded appropriately - ideal if you've bought a new home or business, inheriting woodwork that hasn't been looked after properly.
Always read the data sheets for each product, following manufacturer application instructions. Follow the grain of the wood when applying varnish by brush or roller. Prior to application of the final coat (or if the overcoating time is exceeded), lightly abrade with fine glass paper, again working with the grain, and remove dust. You may also want to apply a bead of clear caulk to sashes, along the seam between the glass and the wood.